28628, Glen Alpine, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28628, Glen Alpine, North Carolina is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28628 has some form of health insurance. 57.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.43 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 28628 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28628. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,113 health care providers accessible to residents in 28628, Glen Alpine, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Glen Alpine, NC (ZIP Code 28628)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services in Glen Alpine, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28628), focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. It aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer insights for residents and healthcare providers, recognizing the growing need for comprehensive geriatric care in the face of an aging population and the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's.

The initial challenge lies in the limited data available at the ZIP code level. Publicly accessible information on physician-to-patient ratios is often aggregated at the county or regional level. However, we can infer some aspects based on available resources and demographic data. Glen Alpine, a small town within Burke County, likely experiences physician shortages common in rural areas. The county's overall physician-to-population ratio is a crucial starting point, and we must consider the distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the county.

Standout practices are difficult to identify definitively without specific practice-level data. However, we can analyze practice characteristics based on publicly available information, such as online reviews, website content, and affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Practices that emphasize geriatric care, offer extended appointment times, and provide comprehensive services, including memory screenings and chronic disease management, would likely score higher. We look for practices that have a reputation for patient-centered care and a commitment to serving the needs of older adults.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring is increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering services such as virtual appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs, would likely score higher. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and caregivers.

Mental health resources are essential for Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals is a critical factor in providing comprehensive care. We must assess the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, support groups, and specialized programs for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

To assess the “Alzheimer's Score,” we must consider several key elements. First, the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the score. Second, practice characteristics. Practices that specialize in geriatric care, provide comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care would positively influence the score. Third, telemedicine adoption. Practices that offer telehealth services would improve the score. Finally, the availability of mental health resources. The presence of mental health professionals and support services would positively influence the score.

Considering these factors, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Glen Alpine, NC (28628) is likely moderate. The rural nature of the area suggests potential challenges in accessing primary care and specialized services. The physician-to-patient ratio may be lower than in more urban areas. However, the presence of local healthcare providers and the potential for telemedicine adoption could mitigate some of these challenges. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor, and the score would be higher if robust mental health services were readily accessible.

The assessment of primary care availability in Glen Alpine reveals several key areas to focus on for improvement. First, increasing the number of PCPs and specialists, especially geriatricians and neurologists, would significantly improve access to care. Second, promoting telemedicine adoption can enhance access to care and improve patient convenience. Third, expanding mental health services, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Fourth, fostering collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community organizations can improve care coordination and support for patients and caregivers.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static number; it is a reflection of the current state of healthcare resources and a call to action for improvements. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to enhance access to care, improve the quality of services, and support the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Glen Alpine and identifying areas where targeted interventions can make a difference.

The challenges of providing quality healthcare in rural areas like Glen Alpine are significant, but they are not insurmountable. By focusing on improving access to care, promoting telemedicine, expanding mental health services, and fostering collaboration among healthcare providers and community organizations, we can improve the "Alzheimer's Score" and create a more supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of Glen Alpine have access to the care they need to live fulfilling lives, regardless of their age or health challenges. The assessment of the "Alzheimer's Score" is a step toward achieving this goal, highlighting the areas where improvement is needed and providing a framework for future efforts.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Glen Alpine, NC (28628), and to visualize the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and resource availability. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.